2019 Rosso di Montalcino

Over the past fifteen years, Pian dell'Orino’s Rosso di Montalcino has always been a dependable wine while waiting for the Brunellos to approach their apex. In fact, it is a “must-buy wine” for me year after year. On my recent visit to the property, I tasted the 2022, 2019, 2015, 2010 and even the 2004 (which will be published with the 2004 Retrospective). All I can say is that the magic is still alive. While the prices of Pian dell'Orino have escalated over time, their Rosso is still one of the best values in the region. It’s fantastic upon release, yet it also ages remarkably well.

Husband and wife team Jan Hendrik Erbach and Caroline Pobitzer are at the top of their game. This newest set of releases is a perfect example of that. For one thing, they did a fantastic job of dealing with the harsh conditions of the 2017 vintage with the Vigneti del Versante. Only a few wines from this vintage maintain this level of purity and depth. Erbach confirmed there would be no Bassolino di Sopra from 2017, as all the fruit went to the Vigneti del Versante. Speaking of Bassolino di Sopra, the 2016 is flirting with perfection. I have continuously tasted this wine over the years, and it has blossomed into one of the most complex yet harmonious young Brunellos I can think of. Ironically, Erbach speaks more about how he’s not 100% happy with the final result, which shows why the quality level at this estate continues to soar.